If you are a lawful permanent resident (LPR) living in the United States, you most likely know that your green card—permanent resident card—has a ten-year expiration date. When it comes time to renew your green card, you might ask, “Do I need a lawyer to renew it?” Although renewing your green card can be a somewhat simple process, there are circumstances when legal help might be quite helpful, particularly if you live in a busy city like Los Angeles, California. We will walk you through renewing your green card and discuss when hiring a lawyer in this blog article.
In this blog, we'll explore:
Understanding the Green Card Renewal Process
Every ten years green cards have to be renewed. Before your current card expires, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) mandates that you file a renewal application (Form I-90). You can begin the process six months before the expiration date. However, some LPRs may find the process challenging, especially if there are complications in their personal or legal situation. Let’s take a closer look at what’s involved in renewing your green card and the role a lawyer might play.
Step-by-Step Guide to Renewing Your Green Card
1. Check Your Expiration Date
Front of your green card should show its expiration date. Beginning the renewal process while your card’s validity runs fewer than six months will help you to avoid issues or any legal resident status lapsing.
Complete form I-90, the application for a replacement permanent resident card. Your green card should be renewed using this form specifically. You could finish it by paper or online using the USCIS website. Before submission, be sure you thoroughly review and give accurate information.
2. Pay the Filing Fee
As of the latest USCIS guidelines, the filing fee for Form I-90 is $540 (this includes a biometric services fee). Fee waivers are available for individuals who meet specific income or hardship criteria.
3. Submit Biometrics
Once USCIS processes your application, they will schedule a biometrics appointment. You will need to provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature at a local Application Support Center (ASC) in Los Angeles or nearby.
4. Wait for Processing
Green card renewals can take several months. USCIS offers a receipt notice (Form I-797C) that you can use as proof of your continued legal residency while your renewal is being processed. This receipt extends the validity of your green card for 24 months after the expiration date.
Do You Need a Lawyer for Green Card Renewal?
The short answer is, not always, but it can be extremely helpful in certain situations. Let’s explore why and when you might want to hire a lawyer to assist with your green card renewal:
1. Straightforward Cases
Your case is generally not complicated—no criminal histories, no immigration status problems, no blunders on past applications—that you would need a lawyer. For people with clean histories and no further legal issues, most green card renewals are rather easy. Following USCIS policies and ensuring all paperwork are accurate will help you file Form I-90 on your own.
2. Complex Cases Involving Criminal History or Legal Complications
If you’ve had any run-ins with the law—whether misdemeanors, felonies, or immigration violations—it’s strongly recommended that you hire a lawyer. Criminal convictions, no matter how minor, can complicate your green card renewal and might even put your residency status at risk. USCIS will carefully review your case and determine whether your past actions disqualify you from renewing your green card.
Experience in Los Angeles immigration law will enable a lawyer to help you negotiate these complexity and present your case in the best possible light. They will be adept in compiling required records and convincingly proving your eligibility.
3. Lost or Stolen Green Cards
Should your green card be lost, stolen, or damaged, the renewal method differs somewhat and you would wish legal advice to be sure you are acting in the right direction. The attorney can assist you in filing for a replacement card, guaranteeing correct documentation and therefore preventing more problems.
4. Previous Immigration Violations
See an attorney if you overstayed a visa, neglected to remove the terms of your green card (for conditional permanent residents), or have any other history of immigration infractions. A lawyer will assist you in presenting your case to USCIS so as to prevent issues that can cause delays or denials.
5. Pending Deportation or Removal Orders
Should you be facing deportation or removal processes, you should never try to renew your green card without legal counsel. Reviewing your case, offering legal choices, and helping to defend your residency status in court a qualified immigration attorney in Los Angeles can help you.
6. Changes in Personal Circumstances
Life is happening. Changes in personal circumstances could lead to uncertainty in the renewal procedure whether your circumstances have changed your name, resulted in divorce, marriage, or several moves. Hiring a lawyer can help to avoid errors and guarantee that everything is handled correctly should there be any doubt about how best to record these developments.
7. Legal Complexities in Conditional Green Card Renewal
Usually awarded to spouses of U.S. citizens or business owners, your conditional green card makes the renewal procedure more difficult. You have to submit Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status) rather than a routine renewal. These petitions call for strong supporting documentation including documentation of a legitimate marriage or continuous involvement in a U.S. company. Errors or inadequate proof can cause denial or perhaps expulsion. A family immigration attorney will help negotiate possible challenges and guarantee that all documentation satisfies USCIS criteria.
8. Consequences of a Denied Renewal Application
If your green card renewal is denied, you may be left without valid proof of your legal status in the U.S. In some cases, USCIS may issue a Notice to Appear (NTA), initiating removal proceedings. A denial could be based on minor errors, insufficient documentation, or failure to respond to a Request for Evidence (RFE) on time. If USCIS believes you committed fraud or have disqualifying criminal history, your case may escalate into deportation proceedings. Having an immigration lawyer can improve your chances of successfully renewing your green card and responding effectively to any issues.
9. Expedited Renewal and Emergency Situations
Certain situations may require an expedited green card renewal, such as international travel, medical emergencies, or urgent employment needs. USCIS typically does not expedite green card renewals unless the applicant can demonstrate a compelling need. An experienced immigration attorney can help you determine whether you qualify for expedited processing and assist in preparing a strong request with supporting documentation.
10. Overcoming Language Barriers and Complex Forms
For applicants who do not speak English fluently, navigating USCIS forms and instructions can be overwhelming. Misinterpretation of questions or failing to provide accurate translations of foreign documents can lead to delays or denials. A lawyer specializing in family immigration can ensure that your application is correctly completed and that all required documents are translated properly.
11. Addressing Lost, Stolen, or Expired Green Cards
If your green card is lost, stolen, or expired, the renewal process differs from standard cases. You must file Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) and provide evidence explaining the circumstances. If your green card is expired for an extended period, USCIS may require additional proof of continuous residence. A lawyer can help gather the necessary documents and advocate on your behalf if complications arise.
12. Avoiding Notario Fraud and Unauthorized Legal Advice
Many immigrants fall victim to notarios or unauthorized immigration consultants who offer legal services without proper credentials. These individuals often charge high fees while providing inaccurate information, leading to application denials or worse, potential deportation proceedings. Only a licensed immigration lawyer can provide accurate legal advice and ensure that your green card renewal is handled correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I Renew My Green Card Online?
A: Yes. You can submit Form I-90 online via the USCIS website or by mail.
Q: How Long Does It Take to Renew a Green Card?
A: The processing time is usually 6 to 12 months, but this may vary.
Q: What Happens If My Green Card Expires Before Renewal?
A: Your permanent resident status remains valid, but an expired green card can cause issues when:
✔ Traveling internationally
✔ Applying for jobs
✔ Renewing a driver’s license
USCIS provides Form I-797C, which extends green card validity for 24 months while renewal is pending.
Q: Can I Travel While My Green Card Renewal Is Pending?
A: Yes, but you may need a temporary travel document (I-131). A lawyer can advise you on the necessary paperwork.
Conclusion: Do I Need a Lawyer to Renew My Green Card?
For straightforward cases, you can renew your green card by filing Form I-90 on your own. However, if you have criminal records, past immigration violations, a lost green card, or upcoming travel plans, hiring an immigration lawyer is highly recommended.
At Aftalion Law Group, our experienced immigration attorneys provide personalized legal support to ensure a smooth green card renewal process. With offices in California and New York, we help clients navigate complex cases and avoid delays.
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